Category Archives: Aviation

Saudi aviation strategy aims for only 10% of 330 million annual travelers to be transit passengers: GACA chief

Abdulaziz Al-Duailej, President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), announced that under the Saudi Aviation Strategy, the Kingdom expects 330 million passengers annually by 2030 and it aims only 10 percent of them to be transit passengers. This strategy is a part of Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to position the Kingdom as a leading regional hub and a global logistics platform connecting three continents. Al-Duailej shared these insights at a ministerial session on the sidelines of Wings India 2024, an exhibition and conference organized by the Indian Ministry of Civil Aviation and the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), from January 18 to 21, 2024, at Begumpet Airport in Hyderabad. (Saudi Gazette report) Al-Duailej emphasized the critical role of civil aviation in supporting Saudi Arabia’s economic growth and sustainable development. The Kingdom is redefining the future of its aviation sector, aiming to attract $100 billion in investments and create an unparalleled travel experience. The focus on sustainable and integrated growth is evident in the aim to have only a fraction of passengers as transit passengers. The Saudi Aviation Strategy includes a comprehensive plan to upgrade and develop airports, airlines, aircraft, and facilities, including shipping and logistics services. It aims to expand the Kingdom’s air connectivity to over 250 destinations worldwide through 29 airports. Additionally, the strategy plans to establish a network of airports with unique capabilities, led by two global connectivity centers in Riyadh and Jeddah. Al-Duailej also highlighted the strategy’s ambition to transform air freight and logistics services, increasing air freight capacity from 0.8 million tons to 4.5 million tons by 2030. This initiative is expected to attract global air carriers, logistics service providers, …

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Emirates and Azul expand partnership to offer joint loyalty programme benefits

Emirates and Azul Linhas Aereas Brasileiras S.A (Azul) have taken their partnership to new heights with the launch of a reciprocal loyalty programme offering. Emirates Skywards and TudoAzul frequent flyer members can now earn and redeem Miles across a joint network of more than 290 destinations worldwide. The two carriers launched a codeshare partnership in 2021 to provide customers enhanced connectivity to/from eight cities in Brazil to Emirates’ global network via Sao Paulo. Dr. Nejib Ben Khedher, Divisional Senior Vice President Emirates Skywards, said: “We’re very pleased to be announcing a new partnership with Azul, the largest airline in Brazil. Skywards members can now rack up even more Miles while discovering hundreds of cities across Brazil and South America. Azul members can also look forward to earning and redeeming Miles on more than 130 destinations across Emirates’ global network. We look forward to the start of a great partnership and to unlocking fantastic benefits for our frequent flyer members.” Cristina Yoshida, Director of Loyalty Program & Ancillary Revenue at Azul, added: “Our partnership with Emirates, a company globally recognized for its excellence in service, means a significant progress in our mission to provide memorable experiences to the customers. We are expanding Azul’s destinations and portfolio, reinforcing our commitment to a loyalty program that offers the best options to the members.” More opportunities to “earn and burn” Miles Under the agreement, Emirates Skywards members can earn Miles while traveling across Azul’s network of more than 150 destinations. Skywards members earn up to 1 Skywards Mile per mile flown in Economy class, and up to 1.5 Skywards Miles per mile flown in Business Class. Members can also redeem flight rewards on Azul …

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Qatar Airways touches down its inaugural flight in Medan, Indonesia to celebrate successful conclusion of Qatar-Indonesia 2023 Year of Culture

Qatar Airways’ inaugural flight from Doha to Medan touched down at Kualanamu International Airport this week marking Medan the airline’s third destination in the Republic of Indonesia. The new direct service will complement the award-winning airline’s over 40 weekly flights to Jakarta and Bali. His Excellency the Minister of State President of Qatar National Library Dr. Hamad bin Abdulaziz Al-Kawari represented the State of Qatar at the inaugural event, which was organized by the award-winning airline in collaboration with the ‘Years of Culture’ to mark the successful completion of the Qatar-Indonesia 2023 Year of Culture. Qatar-Indonesia sought to deepen the understanding of Qatar as a hub for arts and culture, tourism, education, and sports while celebrating the unique aspects of Indonesian culture and building sustainable partnerships through more than 50 programs across both countries. The new route to Medan solidifies the ties between both nations as the The Qatar-Indonesia 2023 Year of Culture comes to a close. During the inaugural event, passengers were greeted with cupcakes and music at the departure gate of Hamad International Airport (DOH). Onboard the inaugural flight, QR966 carried esteemed officials and were welcomed at Kualanamu International Airport by water cannon salute and high-ranking government officials and dignitaries.The official Gala dinner was also attended by officals and dignitaries from both countries, The Ambassador of the State of Qatar to the Republic of Indonesia, H.E Ms. Fawziya Edrees Salman Al-Sulaiti, Indonesian Ambassador to Qatar, H.E Ridwan Hassan, Medan Mayor Mr. Muhammad Bobby Afif, and Secretary General for Years of Culture Steering Committee & Director of Executive committee, Ms. Sara AlMohannadi. The Minister of State, H.E. Dr. Hamad bin Abdulaziz Al-Kawari, said: “The success of the Qatar-Indonesia 2023 Year of Culture laid …

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Riyadh Season and SAUDIA announces new world class entertainment activities

Riyadh Season and Saudi Airlines to create new entertainment zone to provide a unique experience with specialized aircraft that perform commercial tasks other than transporting passengers in the air. This brings delight to travelers who enjoy the travel rituals without going too far. These planes are equipped to offer an entertaining experience and serve delicious meals. More information will be available and announced later. H.E. Advisor Turki Alalshikh, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the General Entertainment Authority (GeA) has announced the start of construction of the new BLVD Runway, as one of the Riyadh Season zones, in cooperation with Saudi Arabian Airlines (Saudia). The zone offers fresh adventures on five planes. The new zone allows visitors to enjoy a variety of cuisines from renowned restaurants. Additionally, the zone features thrilling activities such as a horror themed experience on an airplane. The announcement came after GEA CEO Eng. Faisal Bafarat and Saudia Group Chief Marketing Officer Khaled Tash in the presence of H.E. Eng. Ibrahim bin Abdul Rahman Al-Omar, Director General of Saudia Group, signed an MOU. This agreement is a joint effort between Riyadh Season and Saudi Airlines to create the zone.  

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Wizz Air Abu Dhabi inaugurates new route to Turkistan

Wizz Air Abu Dhabi celebrated the inauguration of its first flight from Abu Dhabi to Turkistan, one of the most important and historic cities in central Asia. The new route reaffirms the airline’s commitment to unlocking an eclectic mix of travel opportunities for both residents and visitors of the UAE and Kazakhstan. Flights to Turkistan will operate three times a week on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday with tickets already on sale on wizzair.com and the airline’s mobile app, available in the Arabic language, with fares starting as low as AED 179*. The national airline is currently flying to more than 40 destinations from Abu Dhabi, including three in Kazakhstan, and providing hassle-free, point-to-point travel for adventurous travellers across the Middle East, Central Asia and beyond. A gem in the heart of Kazakhstan, Turkistan is a captivating mix of history, culture, and natural beauty and testament to the country’s diverse heritage. Boasting architectural marvels, such as the revered Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, a UNESCO World Heritage site that echoes the grandeur of Islamic art and architecture; Turkistan offers an immersive cultural experience. Nature enthusiasts will enjoy the surrounding landscapes, from the scenic beauty of the Sayram-Ugam National Park to the tranquil waters of the Sasykkol Lake with warm Kazakh local delicacies and age-old traditions awaiting. Basking in glorious year-round sunshine, Abu Dhabi is a world-renowned family-friendly destination with incredible art, culture, tradition and hospitality offerings. The UAE capital, blessed with stunning beach resorts, excellent cultural offerings, and exciting attractions, offers visitors a warm welcome and breathtaking natural and built beauty. The city offers an enriching historical experience and a bustling culture to explore with a plethora of both relaxation and …

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SAUDIA to operate flying taxis to ferry pilgrims between Jeddah and Makkah

Saudi Arabian Airlines intends to buy around 100 aircraft to operate flying taxis between King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah and hotels in Makkah. The Saudi national carrier is making preparations to use air taxis as a new mode of transportation during the Hajj season, according to Abdullah Al-Shahrani, director of corporate communications and spokesman of the Saudia Group. He said that the Saudia Group has contracted the purchase of 100 Lilium jets, German electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, to shuttle between the Jeddah airport and airstrips in Makkah hotels near the Grand Mosque and other holy places. “The electric plane Lilium is one of the first aircraft that operates entirely on electric power. The news is according to the Saudi Gazette. “After completing the necessary arrangements, these planes will fly with the guests of God during Hajj and Umrah seasons from King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah to the airstrips in hotels near the Grand Mosque in Makkah,” he told Al-Arabiya. Al-Shahrani noted that flying taxi can transport four to six passengers. “The Lilium aircraft is characterized by a low rate of carbon emissions and is an environmentally friendly aircraft, which makes it one of the possibilities for sustaining air travel and shortening the time of flights, as it covers a maximum distance of 250 km. “Through purchasing nearly 100 aircraft, Saudi Airlines intends to launch an advanced service to connect a number of travel destinations via this advanced electric aircraft, and will support it with air routes between the main airports from where Saudia operates,” he said while pointing out that this is a special service for its guests. He said that the aircraft also features …

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Qatar Airways begin flights to Al Ula Saudi Arabia

Qatar Airways announced the success of its inaugural journey to AlUla, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, marking the airline’s commitment to providing unparalleled travel experiences across over 170 destinations worldwide. Operating two weekly flights to AlUla, Qatar Airways brings the total number destinations to Saudi Arabia to 10, including 125 weekly flights across AlUla, Dammam, Gassim, Jeddah, Medina, NEOM, Riyadh, Tabuk, Taif, and Yanbu. The meticulously curated trip showcased AlUla as a new and exciting destination, offering travellers a unique blend of history, culture, and luxury. The VIP delegation included His Excellency Sheikh Abdulrahman bin Hamad bin Jassim Al Thani, Minister of Culture of the State of Qatar who attended the inaugural flight, His Highness Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan Al-Saud, Minister of Culture of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, Acting Chief Executive Officer Royal Commission for AlUla, Abeer Al Akel, and Phillip Jones Chief Tourism Officer, Royal Commission for AlUla. The VIP delegation started the itinerary with a visit to the heart of the city’s Old Town. The tour showcased the revitalised Old Town, a historical gem with ancient traditional architecture revamped with a modern touch. The journey continued with an exploration of various sites, highlighting a synergy of modernity and history, notably a visit to the sustainable and biodiverse district, Oasis, as well as to multiple publishing houses, providing a deeper understanding of the local culture and its affinity to literature. The pinnacle of the trip was the significant visit to the Kingdom’s first UNESCO Heritage Site, Hegra, where His Highness Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan Al-Saud, Minister of Culture of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, received …

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Jazeera Airways contracts Intelligent Management Solutions

Jazeera Airways announced the signing of a new facilities management contract with Kuwait-based Intelligent Management Solutions (IMS). Under the terms of the contract, IMS will utilize its Computerized Aided Facilities Management System (CAFM IMS) to digitize operations systems and maintenance at Jazeera Terminal 5 (T5) and other facilities. This contract is a part Jazeera Airways’ commitment to support local businesses. Speaking about the contract, Naser Al Obaid, Chief Executive Officer, Jazeera Terminal 5, highlighted: “We are pleased to partner with Intelligent Management Solutions and benefit from their comprehensive digital operations and maintenance system to manage our facilities. It is also a matter of pride to be working with a Kuwaiti startup that has seen many successes in providing its services to local and regional companies.” Jazeera Terminal 5 (T5), fully owned and operated by Jazeera Airways aims to make the passenger journey faster and smoother. The recently upgraded terminal includes 24 check-in desks, five boarding gates, transit areas, food, and beverage options, Duty Free and retail outlets as well as service provider desks for the convenience of all passengers. A 350-vehicle parking building across the road is connected to the Terminal by a walking bridge making it easier to cross over or transfer luggage, especially during the summer months. With just one security check to be cleared for departures, passengers can relax till it’s time to board their flight. IMS is a startup company founded by Kuwaiti entrepreneur Faleh Alajmi. The company developed its proprietary Computerized Aided Facilities Management System (CAFM IMS) to enable companies to efficiently manage facilities, reduce maintenance costs and preserve asset values. The system, alongside the company’s services and solutions, has benefited government-owned and private companies …

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Emirates A380 returns to Vienna

Emirates is welcoming the new year in Austria with great news: From 21 February until the end of the winter flight schedule (30 March 2024), the flights EK127 and EK 128 which are currently operated by a Boeing 777-300ER aircraft will be upgraded to a three-class A380 aircraft, boosting capacity and adding more options for travellers to and from Vienna. Emirates’ flight EK127 leaves Dubai at 08:55hrs and arrives in the Austrian capital at 12:25hrs. The return flight EK128, departs Vienna at 15:10hrs and arrives in Dubai at 23:40hrs. All times are local. Emirates passengers travelling from Vienna will once again enjoy the unique experience offered by the world’s largest passenger aircraft, including First Class suites and shower spas, the onboard lounge and, of course, the best international and regionally inspired cuisine. The award-winning in-flight entertainment system ice offers up to 6,500 channels of on-demand entertainment. Elisabeth Zauner, Country Manager Emirates Austria, is delighted about the return of the Emirates A380 to Vienna: “The deployment of our A380 until the end of the winter schedule is a great milestone for us, which emphasises the importance of Vienna as a destination and as a departure point. We naturally hope that our flagship will return permanently in the future.” Vienna has had to do without the Emirates A380 since August 2022. With this change in the winter flight schedule, an expression of the airline’s dynamic and demand-oriented fleet planning, Emirates will now be the only airline to serve Vienna Airport with the two-deck fan-favourite A380. The evening flights EK 126 and EK 125 will continue to be operated as usual with a B777-300 ER.. In order to guarantee a particularly high standard …

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Emirates flies Real Madrid in style ahead of the Spanish Super Cup in Riyadh

Emirates helped the iconic football club take to the skies in style and ‘fly better’ from Madrid to the Saudi capital on a specially planned charter flight, ahead of the Spanish Super Cup match. Onboard the special charter flight, Nacho Fernández, Eduardo Camavinga, Vini Jr., Luka Modric and other star players experienced bespoke inflight services to rest and recharge ahead of the match. A customized menu for the club featured creative culinary delights inspired by their trip. Specially branded touchpoints and meticulous attention to detail rounded off the inflight experience. The players were also spoilt for choice as they browsed their favourite shows, movies and music on Emirates’ ice inflight entertainment system. Emirates has been proudly supporting Real Madrid as its official partner since 2011, joining up fan experiences with the iconic club to reach its massive fanbase of over 500 million loyal followers around the world. The airline has helped connect Real Madrid on special flights for numerous tours, including sporting events staged in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The airline will continue as the Official Main Airline Partner of Real Madrid until 2026, making it the longest shirt sponsorship in the history of LaLiga.

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